SAIPAN (6 August 2007) -- The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on 12 Saipan beaches after samples showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria. The affected sites are Paupau Beach, Plumeria Hotel, Central Repair Shop, DPW Channel Bridge, South Puerto Rico Dump, Smiling Cove Marina, Outer Cove Marina, Micro Beach, Dai-Ichi Hotel, Drainage #1 (Dai-Ichi Hotel Drainage), Garapan Fishing Dock, and Hopwood School Beach. DEQ said that samples collected from these locations contained concentrations of enterococci that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards. These bacteria can indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water. However, studies have shown that storm water runoff in tropical environments may also contain these bacteria from the natural environment, which may not be directly associated with the public health concerns. In order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ has given these locations a red flag and advises the public not to fish or swim within 300 feet of these locations for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified. DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan's recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday. This week, it analyzed samples taken from 38 locations on the Saipan coast. SOURCE - Saipan Tribune | 
